Lebanese leadership meets Iranian President in New York

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Foreign Minister Youssef Raji met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During the meeting, Salam expressed Lebanon's desire to build a healthy, state-to-state relationship based on mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, and non-interference in internal affairs. He emphasized that Lebanon has paid a heavy price in security and stability and does not wish to be a theater for regional conflicts. Salam also called on Tehran to appoint a new ambassador to Lebanon, following the previous decision to declare the former appointee persona non grata.

Foreign Minister Raji stated that the discussions focused on the conditions necessary for improved bilateral relations. He noted that Lebanon remains committed to its sovereign position and is open to dialogue and negotiation with any party to resolve existing issues.